The role of earthworms on the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling

Abstract

Domínguez, J., Aira, M., Gómez-Brandón, M. (2009). The role of earthworms on the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling. Ecosistemas 18(2):20-31.

Earthworms represent the major animal biomass in most terrestrial temperate ecosystems and where they are abundant, they can process up to 250 tons of soil per hectare per year. This huge work significantly affect soil physical, chemical and biological properties, and gives them a key role in modifying soil structure and in accelerating the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient turnover, which at the same time have important effects on the plant communities living aboveground. Here we have reviewed and illustrated how earthworms are real accelerators of the decomposition of organic matter and nutrient cycling processes through their relationships with the soil microbial community.